Meet 15-year-old Barcelona history-maker compared to Lionel Messi who has ‘innate talent’

Lamine Yamal has excited Barcelona academy coaches from a young age and made his La Liga debut during the 4-0 win over Real Betis.

There is a new name on the lips of world football after 15-year-old Lamine Yamal made history, becoming the youngest player to represent Barcelona in La Liga. The teenager has captivated coaches at the Catalan giants from the age of five and has now started to make an impression on the first team.

Barcelona signed the Catalonian youngster from the age of five and have been staggered by his development as he has progressed through the academy ranks while consistently playing in higher age groups. The teenager has already started breaking records and as part of Barcelona’s under-19 squad, becoming the club’s youngest player in the history of the UEFA Youth League.

Yamal was born in Spain but has a Moroccan father and an Equatorial Guinean mother so is eligible to play for any of the three other countries. The Catalan youngster looks set to represent Spain having already represented his home nation in age group football.

Due to his age, Yamal can’t yet sign a professional contract with the Spanish giants, but he looks almost certain too after being given his chance to shine in the first team. Barcelona boss Xavi has closely monitored the progress of the young forward – who can play anywhere along the forward line – and has been regularly training with the club’s stars.